Arles, the historic city in the heart of Provence, beckons travelers to explore its captivating blend of Roman heritage and artistic charm. A private guided walking tour from Marseille promises an immersive journey through this picturesque destination, uncovering its well-preserved amphitheater, ancient theater, and UNESCO-listed landmarks. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, visitors can expect to be captivated by the stories that breathe life into Arles‘ medieval streets and vibrant squares – the very same landscapes that inspired the masterpieces of Van Gogh. As the tour unfolds, one can’t help but wonder what other secrets this Provençal gem holds, waiting to be discovered.
Key Points
- This private guided walking tour in Arles, Provence lasts a full day and costs €320 per person.
- Guests can skip the lines and see Roman landmarks like the amphitheater and ancient theater, as well as the UNESCO-listed Saint-Trophime Church and Alyscamps necropolis.
- The tour highlights Arles’ impressive Roman architecture, including the 1st-century AD amphitheater and 1st-century BC ancient theater.
- Guests depart from Marseille’s Saint Charles train station and are greeted by a knowledgeable, multilingual guide upon arrival in Arles.
- The tour offers a flexible cancellation policy, allowing free cancellations up to 24 hours prior to the tour.
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Overview of the Tour
This private guided walking tour in Arles, a picturesque city in the Provence region, offers visitors a comprehensive exploration of the city’s rich history and cultural heritage.
The tour lasts for a full day and costs €320 per person, with the option to cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance.
Guests will be able to skip the lines and see some of Arles’ most impressive Roman landmarks, including the well-preserved amphitheater and ancient theater.
The tour also includes a visit to the UNESCO-listed Saint-Trophime Church and the Alyscamps, an ancient Roman necropolis.
In between these historical highlights, visitors will have the chance to wander through the charming medieval streets and discover local crafts and products.
Highlights of Arles
The tour immerses visitors in Arles’ captivating Roman heritage, starting with the impressive Roman Amphitheatre, one of the best-preserved in the world. Towering over the city, the amphitheatre dates back to the 1st century AD and was once the site of thrilling gladiatorial contests.
Nearby, the Ancient Roman Theatre, dating to the 1st century BC, still stands as a testament to the city’s illustrious past.
The tour also explores the Saint-Trophime Church, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its Romanesque architecture.
At the Alyscamps, an ancient Roman necropolis, visitors can wander among the striking stone sarcophagi that line the atmospheric pathways.
Throughout the tour, the guide brings Arles’ rich history to life, immersing participants in the timeless charm of this remarkable city.
Exploring the Old Town
Beyond the famous monuments, visitors exploring Arles’ old town are captivated by its charming medieval streets and vibrant squares, where local crafts and products are showcased in quaint shops.
Strolling through the town’s winding alleyways, one can’t help but be enchanted by the picturesque architecture, from the ornate doorways to the colorful facades.
The Place du Forum, a lively central square, is a hub of activity, with locals and travelers alike sipping coffee or browsing the artisanal goods on display.
Whether it’s browsing for handmade pottery, admiring the intricate ironwork, or simply soaking in the historic ambiance, Arles’ old town offers a delightful glimpse into the heart of Provençal culture.
Connections to Van Gogh
Arles’ historic streets and landscapes have long captivated artists, with the city’s vibrant hues and unique architectural charms inspiring some of Vincent van Gogh’s most iconic paintings.
During the tour, you’ll visit several locations that were immortalized on the Dutch master’s canvases, including:
The Yellow Café, where Van Gogh famously painted his lively ‘Café Terrace at Night.’
The Langlois Bridge, the wooden structure spanning the Rhône River that appears in several of his works.
The ancient Roman necropolis of Alyscamps, whose atmospheric avenue of sarcophagi caught Van Gogh’s eye.
Discovering these evocative settings provides a deeper appreciation for the artist’s vision and the enduring appeal of Arles’ timeless beauty.
Departure and Transportation
Guests set out from Marseille’s Saint Charles train station for the roughly hour-long journey to Arles, where they’ll embark on a captivating private walking tour.
The train ride offers a glimpse of the picturesque Provençal countryside, setting the stage for the exploration to come.
Upon arrival in Arles, the knowledgeable multilingual guide greets the group, ready to lead them through the city’s rich history and artistic connections.
With skip-the-line tickets in hand, the tour seamlessly navigates the must-see sites, ensuring an efficient and immersive experience.
From the ancient Roman amphitheater to the charming medieval streets, the tour showcases the city’s diverse cultural heritage, allowing guests to fully enjoy the world of Van Gogh and the wonders of Arles.
Tour Guide and Language
A knowledgeable, multilingual guide leads the private tour, skillfully navigating guests through Arles’ captivating history and artistic legacy.
With expertise and enthusiasm, the guide brings the city’s ancient Roman sites, medieval landmarks, and Van Gogh’s inspirations to life, ensuring an immersive and enriching experience for all.
The guide’s in-depth knowledge and fluency in multiple languages allow them to:
- Provide detailed historical context and insights into the significance of each site.
- Engage guests in lively discussions and answer any questions they may have.
- Tailor the tour to the interests and preferences of the group, creating a personalized experience.
This skilled guide is the key to unlocking the hidden gems and treasures of Arles, making the private tour a truly memorable journey.
Ticket Inclusions
The tour includes skip-the-line tickets to the top attractions in Arles, ensuring seamless access to the city’s iconic Roman amphitheater, ancient theater, and other UNESCO-listed sites.
Visitors can bypass the queues and dive straight into exploring these well-preserved remnants of the Roman era.
The skip-the-line access extends to the Saint-Trophime Church, a stunning example of Romanesque architecture, and the Alyscamps, an ancient Roman necropolis that served as the inspiration for some of Van Gogh’s most famous paintings.
With these convenient ticket inclusions, travelers can maximize their time in Arles, seeing the city’s rich history and cultural heritage without the hassle of waiting in long lines.
Cancellation and Booking
Travelers can take advantage of the tour’s flexible cancellation policy, which allows for free cancellations up to 24 hours prior to the scheduled departure time. This provides guests with the peace of mind to book their tour without worrying about unexpected changes in their plans.
On top of that, the ‘reserve now, pay later’ option makes it convenient for visitors to secure their spot on the tour and finalize the payment closer to the tour date.
The booking process is straightforward:
- Select the desired tour date and number of participants.
- Provide the required personal information.
- Confirm the booking and pay at a later time, closer to the tour date.
This hassle-free approach ensures a seamless booking experience for those eager to explore the historic city of Arles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Lunch Included in the Tour Price?
No, lunch is not included in the tour price. The tour focuses on exploring the historical and cultural highlights of Arles, allowing participants to enjoy the local cuisine at their own expense during free time or after the tour.
Can the Tour Be Customized to Personal Interests?
The private guide can customize the tour to accommodate personal interests. Guests can request to spend more time at specific sites or focus on areas like Roman history, Van Gogh’s legacy, or the local culture and cuisine.
How Wheelchair-Accessible Is the Tour Route?
The tour route is generally wheelchair-accessible, with ramps and paved pathways throughout the historic center. However, access to some sites like the Roman Amphitheatre may be limited due to historic preservation constraints. Advanced notice can help accommodate specific needs.
Are There Any Discounts for Students or Seniors?
The tour company offers discounted rates for students and seniors, typically around 10-15% off the standard price. Guests should inquire about these special offers when booking to take advantage of the savings.
Can the Tour Be Booked for a Private Group?
The tour can be booked for a private group, allowing you to explore Arles’ highlights at your own pace with a dedicated guide. This customized experience offers flexibility and a more personalized experience.
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Recap
Exploring the captivating city of Arles on this private guided walking tour is a journey through time.
From the well-preserved Roman landmarks to the charming medieval streets, each step unveils the city’s rich history and artistic legacy.
With seamless access to the must-see sites and a knowledgeable guide, visitors can enjoy the Provençal charm that inspired the great Van Gogh, creating an unforgettable experience in this picturesque gem.